How Effective is FESS (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery)?

How Effective is FESS (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery)?

Sinusitis (sinus infection) leads to bothersome symptoms for millions of Americans. This disease causes the linings of the sinuses (air-filled cavities) in your face and forehead to swell, resulting in a build-up of mucus that causes annoying symptoms. These may include congestion, drainage, post nasal drip (the sensation of mucus dripping down the back of your throat) a reduced sense of smell or taste, and headaches or facial pain.

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is an advanced type of surgery that may be recommended if you have sinus problems that aren’t being effectively managed by conservative treatments such as medication.

What is FESS?

FESS is a minimally invasive surgical treatment of sinusitis and issues that can cause this condition, such as nasal polyps. It requires no incisions on the face, but instead utilizes a nasal endoscope (a small lighted telescope) that’s inserted through the nostrils. This device allows the surgeon to see inside the nose and sinuses with a special camera attached to the endoscope.

The FESS procedure helps clear and enlarge the sinus’ drainage pathway so mucus can drain freely instead of building up.

Why would the FESS procedure be recommended?

FESS is a definitive treatment that’s often recommended for patients who haven’t had success with oral medication or nasal sprays, or those who have had other types of surgery that proved to be ineffective.

Patients who suffer from sinus problems that are related to or caused by the following issues may be good candidates for the FESS procedure:

Chronic sinusitis – a sinus infection that lasts for more than 12 weeks, despite attempts to treat it.

Deviated septum – a crooked or off-center partition that divides the nasal cavity in half, making breathing difficult. This may sometimes be associated with anatomical sinus malformation.

What does FESS involve?

Since FESS is performed through the nostrils, no facial incisions are made. This allows the majority of patients to experience no bruising or swelling after the procedure.

During the surgery, a very thin tube equipped with a tiny camera is used to allow the surgeon to examine the openings in the sinuses. Micro-telescopes and instruments are used to remove abnormal tissues or bony structures that are causing blockages. When the procedure is complete, sinus openings are unblocked and enlarged, allowing them to drain effectively.

How effective is the FESS procedure?

FESS endoscopic sinus surgery is a highly effective procedure since it precisely targets and treats the underlying problems areas that are ultimately causing your symptoms.

It’s a minimally invasive procedure that provides effective, long-lasting results for patients who are suffering from breathing issues or chronic sinusitis.

Where can I find a doctor to perform a FESS procedure in the Dallas/Fort Worth area?

DFW Sinus Select has numerous practices conveniently located throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

The first step to getting relief is to contact DFW Sinus Select and set up an initial consultation to see if our Dallas/Fort Worth ENT physicians believe that the FESS procedure is right for you. We’ll conduct a thorough examination and talk with you about your symptoms and medical history before determining the best course of action.

Get started now by filling out the appointment request form on this page or by contacting one of our ten practice locations.